Pixel Alchemy

Pixel Alchemy

Author: Steve Brazill March 28, 2019 Duration: 0:00

I can’t believe this is actually happening.

Renee Robyn is finally on Behind the Shot. Since most people already know who Renee is, I could probably stop here and call a day. I wouldn’t need to write anything long, or detailed, or praise her talent at all, and the odds are good you’d still understand how cool this is. But here’s the thing…. I want to write about Renee.

The reason I am so excited about having Renee on the show is because I almost had her on once before. In fact, a few years ago we even recorded an episode. Unfortunately that show never made it to release, but now she’s back!

Renee Robyn is a Canadian photographer, and a damn good one, but she also happens to be a master of compositing. I have heard the term Digital Artist, but I like one I found while researching her better… she is a Pixel Alchemist. A brilliant Pixel Alchemist.

Renee travels the world photographing amazing places, as though she is chasing the perfect backdrop for her art. She’s a treasure hunter, looking for those special scenes to use in her composites. All the while she seems to be studying her surroundings…. what angles are the clouds at, how does the atmosphere of the scene change as the water or mountains fall into the distance, and how is the light unique. I actually think Renee sees the world differently than anyone else, and it shows in her art. Those real world backdrops become a small part of the uniquely cinematic worlds she creates, and once you’ve seen Renee’s work you’ll recognize it every time. She can merge fact and fiction with a digital precision that few others can, which is why she has worked with industry leading brands like Adobe, Wacom, Corel, Capture One, and Intel.

Let me paint a picture of how Renee works…. she can be in a gale force wind, climbing a fog-shrouded mountain and still make magic. Just as easily she can be in a studio working with one of the world’s top musicians, and in both cases my guess is she’d be in her happy place.

An expert retoucher, her mastery of color theory, editing, light and shadow is just plain next level, and I am so excited to have her as my guest.

Join one of the most talented creators I know, Renee Robyn, and me as we discuss all things compositing, and take a deep dive into one of her amazing images, on this episode of Behind the Shot.

Connect with Renee

Website: reneerobynphotography.com
Facebook: @reneerobynphotography
Instagram: @reneerobynphotography
Instagram Side Quests: @noodlesontheside
Twitter: @reneerobynphoto


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 200

Behind the Shot - Video
Podcast Episodes
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Duration: 59:04
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Duration: 1:06:26
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